Refinish Wooden Dining Table with 150, 280, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

Dining tables are often the heart of the home, but constant use can lead to scratches, stains, and dull finishes. Using 150, 280, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can restore the surface to a smooth, beautiful state ready for a new finish.

Why This Method Works

150 grit removes old finish and levels surface imperfections. 280 grit refines the wood for consistent stain or paint application. 3000 grit burnishes the surface for a silky, professional touch before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 150 grit (25-pack), 280 grit (100-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack or 50-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 150 grit: Remove old coatings and surface flaws. (25-pack)
• 280 grit: Smooth for finish application. (100-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a silky finish. (25-pack) or (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clear the table and clean thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, and debris.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 150 grit sandpaper to strip the old finish and smooth out imperfections.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 280 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit (25-pack) or (50-pack) for a smooth, touch-friendly finish.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the table, letting each coat dry completely before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For tables with inlays, sand carefully to avoid damaging decorative details.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain for the best results.
• Vacuum between grit changes to prevent dust contamination.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for greater durability.

Aftercare

• Use placemats and coasters to protect the finish.
• Dust regularly to maintain its appearance.

FAQs

• Can I skip 280 grit? No—jumping from 150 to 3000 grit will leave visible scratches.
• Will 3000 grit make the table glossy? Gloss comes from the topcoat, not the sanding grit alone.
• Does this work on painted dining tables? Yes—150 grit will remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and restore your dining table to like-new condition.